A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends to create a closed package.
The finished format is usually described as a pillow pack.
Rather than relying on repeated manual wrapping, flow wrapping machinery supports a continuous packaging process. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.
5. Finished Product
The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.
Fast Packaging Output
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Less Manual Handling
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.
Product Protection
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.
Adaptable Product Handling
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Frequently used films include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required get more info
- Labour costs are increasing
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
Yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.
Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems
Kempner has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.
The available machinery includes horizontal and vertical flow wrappers for food and non-food applications.
Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?
A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.
Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.